Heat Warning and High Fire Risk
All of Madeira and the neighboring island of Porto Santo are under a yellow warning for high temperatures until Friday evening (August 7th, 18:00). The heat affects not only the coast but also mountain areas, increasing the risk of wildfires.
- Who is affected: All visitors to the island, especially tourists planning physically demanding activities.
- What this means in practice: The dry and hot conditions create an extreme risk of fire. There is a strict ban on open fires and the use of grills in nature.
- What we recommend: Pack at least 2-3 liters of water per person for hikes. Plan the most strenuous sections for the morning or late afternoon, and avoid direct sun between 11:00 and 16:00. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen.
Traffic: Expect Delays Between São Vicente and Seixal
If you are heading to the north coast today, be prepared for potential delays. Maintenance work is underway on the slopes along the VE2 expressway.
- Who is affected: Drivers traveling between São Vicente and Seixal, for example to the Véu da Noiva waterfall or the natural swimming pools in Seixal and Porto Moniz.
- What this means in practice: Between 9:30 and 17:00, in the section between kilometers 3.3 and 3.4, alternating traffic control will be in place, and there may be temporary full closures of approximately 30 minutes.
- What we recommend: For a smoother journey, set off either early in the morning (before 9:30) or later in the evening (after 17:00). An alternative is the longer but scenic route via the inland Encumeada pass.
Cheap but decent
Holidays Madeira
São Vicente
Adults-only guest house in a historic São Vicente building, free parking, volcanic caves 14 min walk. Bathrooms are shared.
Cheap but decent
Estalagem Estrela
Estrela
Small inn in Estrela with private bathrooms, balconies, mountain views and free parking. Pet friendly, but Funchal marina is 9 km away.
Cheap but decent
Oceanview room
Ponta Delgada
Room with sea-view terrace on the quiet north coast, shared kitchen, washing machine and free parking. Airport is 40 km away.
Cheap but decent
Habitación santo antonio
Estrela
Simple room above Funchal in Estrela with private bathroom, mountain view and free parking. The marina is 9 km away, so bring a car.
Cheap but decent
Casa da Montanha
Salão
Homestay in the Salão hills, 5 km from the Porto Moniz pools, kitchen and free parking. The bathroom is shared.
Cheap but decent
Narciso's House
São Vicente
Simple São Vicente guest house, volcanic caves 7 min walk, kitchen and free parking. Some rooms only have a shared bathroom.
Cheap but decent
Casa do Arco
Arco da Calheta
Homestay in Arco da Calheta with sun terrace, shared kitchen and free parking. Nearest beach 1,8 km downhill, airport 48 km.
Cheap but decent
Porto Santo Destination
Porto Santo
Hostel 4 min from Porto Santo's sand beach, breakfast and free parking included. At this price it is two dorm beds, not a private room.
Trail and Levada Status: PR1 One-Way and Other Closures
Before you head for the mountains, check the current status of your route. Some popular trails have restrictions.
- PR 1 Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Areeiro – Pico Ruivo): The ridge trail is open, but there is strictly one-way traffic from the Pedra Rija viewpoint towards Pico Ruivo. Passage is only possible via the western route through the tunnels.
- Mandatory Registration and Fee: On the busiest routes (including PR1), it is necessary to register in advance and pay a fee of €4.50 for non-residents on the SIMplifica portal.
- Currently Closed Trails: PR 7 (Levada do Moinho), PR 10 (Levada do Furado), PR 3 on Porto Santo, and a section of PR 1.3 (Boca das Torrinhas – Encumeada) are closed for long-term or maintenance reasons. Always check the official IFCN website before any hike.
Where to Go for Culture Tonight? Festa do Monte Begins and Machico Festival Continues
Want to experience an authentic Madeiran atmosphere? You have two great opportunities tonight.
- Monte: In the pilgrimage church above Funchal at 20:00, the traditional novenas begin, which are the prelude to the island’s largest celebration, Festa do Monte. The area around the church will come alive with stalls selling poncha and local specialties. Parking is very limited; we recommend using the cable car or public transport.
- Machico: The popular Gastronomic Festival continues on the east of the island. In addition to great food like espetada skewers, you can enjoy a concert by the band “De Passagem” from 22:30.
Island Briefs: A Quiet Night and a Prestigious Nomination
A very light earthquake (magnitude 1.1) was recorded off the coast of Ribeira Brava during the night, but it was not felt by anyone and had no impact on safety. You can travel anywhere without concern. On a related note, Madeira has been nominated for Europe’s Leading Cruise Destination in the World Cruise Awards, confirming the high quality of services here.